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Devastating injuries hit Rangers ahead of Celtic showdown

By Hikithe Achumi

GLASGOW, SCOTLAND - APRIL 30: Ben Davies of Rangers on the ball during the Scottish Cup Semi Final match between Rangers and Celtic at Hampden Park on April 30, 2023 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Richard Sellers/Sportsphoto/Allstar via Getty Images)
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND - APRIL 30: Ben Davies of Rangers on the ball during the Scottish Cup Semi Final match between Rangers and Celtic at Hampden Park on April 30, 2023 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Richard Sellers/Sportsphoto/Allstar via Getty Images) /
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Rangers Football Club have been dealt a massive blow ahead of their historic rivalry match against Celtic this Saturday.

Assistant manager Michael Beale announced in a press conference today that star wingers Ben Davies and Ryan Kent will miss the crucial Scottish Premiership Old Firm derby due to injuries.

The duo have been instrumental to Beale’s system this season but face uncertain futures as Davies has been linked with a move away from Ibrox while Kent’s loan spell from Liverpool is set to end.

After proving to be key figures in past Old Firm derbies, their absence will be sorely felt, especially with nothing but bragging rights at stake this weekend.

However, midfield mainstay Ryan Jack has returned to full fitness and will start while talismanic striker Alfredo Morelos is available for selection again despite recent disciplinary issues.

In a tweet, Rangers confirmed the news, saying:

“MB: Ben (Davies) misses out. Ryan (Kent) has not returned to training as still has an issue. Jack comes back in which is great. Alfredo is available for selection, our relationship is honest and there are no issues there.”

The writing seems to be on the wall for Davies and Kent. While Rangers are scouting potential signings to fill the void they will leave, losing players of their calibre will undoubtedly weaken the team.

Beale has relied on them heavily this campaign but will now have to find solutions from within his existing squad for the Celtic clash.

Devastating injuries hit Rangers ahead of Celtic showdown

Though Saturday’s derby is effectively a dead rubber, it represents an opportunity for Beale to evaluate his players ahead of next season.

After a series of disappointing results against their bitter rivals, he will be desperate to end the season on a high and lay down a marker.

Rangers’ passionate fans will also want to see their team restore pride and banish the memory of those painful defeats.

While the absence of Davies and Kent is a major setback, perhaps it will inspire the rest of the team to step up to the plate.

The stage is set for an intriguing contest where Rangers have everything to prove in front of their home supporters.

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